Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has reaffirmed unwavering UK support for Ukraine. She made this pledge during her first official overseas trip. Cooper visited Kyiv to meet with Ukrainian leaders. Consequently, she announced a significant new aid package. Additionally, she detailed a fresh set of sanctions against Russia.
Cooper arrived in the Ukrainian capital on Friday morning. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba greeted her at the railway station. Later, she held discussions with President Volodymyr Zelensky. Her visit signals strong continued British backing. This is especially important after recent Russian aggression near NATO borders.
Furthermore, the UK is committing an extra £142 million in assistance. This funding will help Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. It will also support its most vulnerable communities. Specifically, £100 million is for frontline areas. This money will repair critical water systems. It will also fix heating systems ahead of winter. Moreover, it will support local livelihoods and strengthen resilience.
Meanwhile, another £42 million will repair electricity networks. It will also provide protection for gas and power infrastructure. This is crucial due to relentless Russian attacks on energy facilities. Cooper stated UK support is “unwavering and stronger than ever.” She condemned Putin’s bombardment of Ukrainian civilians. She also criticized Russian stalling at peace talks.
Alongside the aid, the UK announced one hundred new sanctions. These measures target Russia’s economy and military supply chains. They specifically focus on seventy ships in Putin’s “shadow fleet.” This fleet illicitly carries oil and other cargo. The sanctions also hit companies supplying Russia with military equipment. This includes electronics, chemicals, and explosives for weapons.
Cooper will also tour sites recently damaged by Russian strikes. She will see Kyiv’s cabinet of ministers building. This building was hit for the first time just days ago. That attack was Russia’s largest aerial assault since the war began. She will also visit a destroyed residential building. This highlights the war’s brutal impact on civilians.
Separately, Prince Harry also made a surprise visit to Kyiv on Friday. He came at the invitation of a charity helping wounded soldiers. He said he wanted to help injured military personnel with their recovery.
Ultimately, the UK’s actions demonstrate a firm commitment. The new funding and sanctions form the next stage of UK efforts. These efforts increase economic pressure on Russia. They also provide vital security support. The UK government continues to work for a just and lasting peace. Therefore, the message from this visit is clear. The UK promises unwavering UK support for as long as it takes. This unwavering UK support remains a cornerstone of foreign policy.
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